Hellenic Culture 

On Tuesday 11 June, the Synaxis of the Theotokos “Axion Estin” and the name day of the Ecumenical Patriarch was jointly celebrated with ecclesiastical magnificence, in a joyful and solemn atmosphere at the Holy Monastery “Axion Estin”, Archiepiscopal Church of the Archdiocesan District of Northcote. 

Selected students from Years 7, 8 and 9 had the honour to attend the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. The attendance of our students and faithful believers, from the city of Melbourne and from other regions of the State of Victoria, was overwhelming and moving, while they reverently venerated the icon of the Mother of God and prayed together with a warm heart for His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, who celebrated his Name Day.

The Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was officiated by His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, who was joined by His Grace Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis, His Grace Bishop Silouan of Sinope, His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Kerasounta and His Grace Bishop Bartholomew of Charioupolis.

Students observed the ordination of Father George Vryonis who received the second degree of priesthood through the holy hands of his Chief Shepherd, His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia.

At the end of the service, students had the opportunity to meet and speak His Eminence Archbishop Makarios.  His Eminence asked students about their journey at school and he gave his blessing to his beloving children. 

It was a great honour for our students to attend this beautiful Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. Congratulations to students who represent Oakleigh Grammar School in this special occasion.

Natasha Spanos

Hellenic Culture Coordinator